Safety tips after Chicopee crash injures two

Two individuals were hospitalized following a collision between a motorcycle and a vehicle on Fairview Ave. in Chicopee yesterday afternoon. Chicopee Police Officer Travis Odiorne mentioned that the extent of the injuries is currently unknown. The Fairview Avenue and Springfield Street intersection has been reopened after the investigation. Warm weather often tempts motorcyclists onto the road, which can unfortunately lead to a rise in dangerous accidents. According to AAA, nearly 60% of motorcyclist fatalities occur between May and September, and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data reveals a 32% increase in motorcycle crash deaths from April to May in the past decade. To enhance road safety, motorists are advised to maintain a greater following distance when driving near motorcycles, be vigilant of mirrors and blind spots for motorcyclists, and wait before passing if a motorcyclist signals a turn. If there are concerns, it is recommended to contact law enforcement. Springfield Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers emphasized the importance of allowing motorcyclists to proceed safely, especially if they appear to be behaving recklessly. Akers, who also rides a motorcycle, advises motorcyclists to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic regulations. In Massachusetts, there were 65 fatal motorcycle accidents in 2024.